IT was Valentine’s week and that meant a trip out of town. This time, my husband and I went to Baguio for our anniversary where the weather was 9◦C.The mountain roads were challenging because of the blind curves, steep hills, zigzags, unpredictable weather conditions and possibility of falling rocks. We passed through Kennon Road, which was undergoing repairs due to recent landslides. It only took us three and a half hours to get to Baguio via the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEx).
Driving up the mountains is usually exhausting but with the all-new Audi Q5, our trip was fun and enjoyable. Powered by a turbocharged TDI 2.0-liter four-cylinder rated at 190 hp, the Q5 is so quiet, very comfortable and imbued with the latest electronic driver aids. The engine doesn’t even sound like a conventional diesel motor. The Q5 comes with a quick-shifting seven-speed automatic gearbox and Audi’s Quattro Four-Wheel-Drive system as standard.Another Q5 variant has a TFSI engine, which churns out an output of 252 hp. The two top engines combine ample power with efficiency.
Q5’s automatic transmissions integrate a fuel-saving freewheel function. I can control it by a selection lever or by shift paddles on the steering wheel. In both cases, the control signals are transmitted electronically to the wheels. The new Quattro drivetrain with ultra-technology always disengages the rear-axle drive whenever it is not needed, and, if necessary. It can proactively re-engage it. The new concept boosts efficiency without reducing traction or driving dynamics. With Quattro drive, torque vectoring adds a refined touch to handling. The intelligent software solution always delivers a dynamic, precise and controllable driving experience. The Q5 is fuel efficient and boasts EPA ratings that are above average for its class. We only consumed ¼ of a full tank after a 500-kilometer round trip from Manila to Baguio and back.
This second generation of Q5 is sportier and more versatile. The exterior has a curved shoulder line that gives structure to the side view just as at the front and horizontal lines at the rear that transport an image of width and presence. The tail lights come with optional dynamic turn signals. The tailgate wraps around the C-pillars, which is a usual feature of the Q models from Audi. A diffuser insert consolidates the exhaust tailpipes.
The Audi Q5 is a five-seater premium compact SUV just right for a couple or family but it is swifter than its rivals such as the BMW X3, Volvo XC60 and M-Benz GLC. The Q5 sets the bar a notch higher. Its most significant new features are the quattro drive with ultra-technology, highly efficient engines, adaptive air suspension as well as an array of infotainment and assistance systems.
Step inside the Q5 and you’ll be treated to a posh, seats wrapped in leather and well-appointed interior. You will notice the 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit display screen in the center. The Q5 is equipped with Bang & Olufsen Sound System connected to 19 speakers with innovative 3D sound. The infotainment system is instinctive and comes standard with an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android system.
With the optional (Multimedia interface) MMI touch control terminal, you can control many functions like a touch pad that can recognize your handwriting but also many well-known finger gestures used for smart phones. Whether navigation, radio, telephone, or Audi connect, the large, slim 8.3-inch color display of the optional MMI navigation plus provides an intelligent free text search, among other things. The new, natural voice control also processes inputs from everyday speech. In the new Audi Q5, the multi-function steering wheel plus also serves as a third operating level.
A wireless smartphone charging pad and rear-seat USB ports are also convenient. The Q5’s rear is spacious and seatbacks can easily fold in a 40/20/40 fashion.
The Q5 has scored excellently in crash tests from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the latest of which called the Audi a Top Safety Pick. Key safety features include Anti-lock brakes, Automated emergency braking, Hill descent assist, Forward-collision warning and Security system to name a few.
Euro NCAP awarded the Q5 a five-star safety score in 2017, making it one of the safest cars on sale and well worth considering. The SUV with the four rings combines the sportiness of an Audi saloon with a multifaceted character and a highly flexible interior. Whether in its connectivity, efficiency or driver assistance systems—the new Audi Q5 once again sets standards in its segment. The Q5’s one of the best SUV all-rounders available today.
Image credits: Tet Andolong